With the bottom as close as it is, the Hornets are just five points off the relegation zone.

A club statement read: “This has been a difficult decision and one not taken lightly.

“The catalyst for this decision is that unwarranted approach, something which the board believes has seen a significant deterioration in both focus and results to the point where the long-term future of Watford has been jeopardised.”

Sky Sports are reporting that Silva’s replacement has already been decided but will not be announced today.

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